On Family Day weekend 2026, downtown Victoria will glow a little brighter. Victoria at Dusk—a brand-new winter arts experience—invites locals and visitors alike to step into an illuminated world of light, art, and storytelling from February 13 to 15, 2026, transforming familiar streets into a canvas of creativity and connection.
From 5 to 9 pm each evening, the city’s heart becomes a self-guided journey through installations, performances, and interactive moments designed to spark wonder. Best of all? It’s completely free, open to all ages, and crafted to bring the community together during one of the darkest months of the year.
A Walkable Trail of Light + Art + Discovery
The experience unfolds across several iconic downtown locations—Ship Point, Bastion Square, Government Street, the Victoria Conference Centre, and the Royal BC Museum—each offering its own curatorial theme and atmosphere.
Along the route, visitors can expect:
- Light-based installations that transform the night into a glowing gallery
- Performance art and live storytelling that bring Victoria’s history and imagination to life
- Interactive activities for families, friends, and curious wanderers
- Pop-up cultural expressions from local artists and creators
- A lively community hub complete with DJs, food trucks, a beer truck, and cozy spaces to gather and warm up
It’s a choose-your-own-adventure kind of evening—wander slowly, follow the lights, or let the music pull you forward.
A Celebration of Community in the Heart of Winter
Produced by The Wilder and brought to life through the City of Victoria’s OUR DWTN program, Victoria at Dusk is more than a festival—it’s an invitation to reconnect with downtown in a new way. The event encourages local businesses, cafés, hotels, galleries, and cultural venues to join in with special activations, illuminated windows, signature dishes, and creative collaborations that extend the magic beyond the main route.
It’s a moment for the city to shine—literally and figuratively—while supporting local culture and creating shared memories during the Family Day long weekend.
Key details:
5 – 9 pm
Friday 13 – Saturday 15 February, 2026
Ship Point, Bastion Square, Government Street, Victoria Conference Centre, Royal BC Museum
Free, no tickets required, all ages welcome
Why You’ll Want to Go
Whether you’re a family looking for a free evening out, a couple seeking a romantic winter stroll, or a creative soul drawn to art in unexpected places, Victoria at Dusk offers something special:
- It’s free and ticketless—just show up and wander.
- It’s all ages, welcoming everyone from toddlers to grandparents.
- It’s walkable, accessible, and designed to be explored at your own pace.
- It’s immersive, blending light, sound, story, and community.
- It’s uniquely Victoria, celebrating local artists, local stories, and the beauty of winter nights on the coast.
A New Winter Tradition Begins
As the days slowly lengthen and the city leans toward spring, Victoria at Dusk arrives as a reminder that winter can be beautiful, playful, and full of light. Mark your calendar, gather your people, and step into the glow—downtown Victoria is about to shine in a whole new way.
